Top Paihia On the Water

Let seafaring experts show you the best of New Zealand’s Bay of Islands by land and by water on this adventure cruise. With 144 different isles, it can be hard to know where to start, but your captain and crew know all the best spots to swim, snorkel, and spot marine life. Hop off at two hand-picked islands for a hike to panoramic lookout points and see the famous Hole in the Rock.

Take a break from the hustle and bustle and venture out to discover the Bay of Islands on this group sightseeing cruise. Check out the Hole in the Rock and Cathedral Cave, and make sure you keep your eyes peeled for marine wildlife during the cruise. Stop at one of the over 140 islands in the enclave and walk to a lookout point for views unlike any other.

There’s no better way to discover the Bay of Islands than from the water, and this half-day cruise from either Paihia or Russell lets you experience island life in depth, with a long stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. You’ll get the chance to look for dolphins, learn about history, ecology, and wildlife from your skipper, and see signature sights including the Hole in the Rock.

Embark on a 4.5 hour Cruise and Island tour in the scenic Bay of Islands, where nature's wonders and cultural exploration await. Cruising through the islands, keeping an eye out for marine wildlife and native seabirds while our knowledgeable guides offer insights into the history, ecology, and Maori culture. Stopping at Roberton Island, a pristine paradise surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Take a short walk to the lookout point over the twin lagoons to enjoy the panoramic views of the Bay. Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock," a breathtaking natural formation showcasing the Bay's unique geology and the Cape Brett Lighthouse Our second island stop provides the opportunity to explore secluded bays, make use of the snorkelling gear provided, have a swim or simply relax. Bring a picnic or contact Island Getaway directly to pre-order a packed lunch The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery, making it a must-do experience in the Bay of Islands!

There are few more unique ways to see the Bay of Islands than catching the wind and parasailing high above the water. See the Bay’s towns, forests and islands – all the way out to Cape Brett’s famous Hole in the Rock – from the sky on this aerial adventure. Take to the skies with your friends or family on tandem or triple flights. Your children can even go parasailing – this adventure is suitable for all.

Explore subtropical islands, Maori heritage sites and golden beaches on this cruise around the Bay of Islands from Paihia. Soak up the scenery as you float between the bay’s 144 islands and sail straight through the iconic Hole in the Rock (weather permitting). Along the way, spot dolphins swimming and playing alongside the boat.

Scenic Cruise among 144 sub-tropical islands and discover the Bay of Islands on a small group tour. Visit the landing site of Captain James Cook, and stopover on Roberton island for a short walk to the lookout point over the Twin Lagoons. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the Marine Mammal sanctuary, and listen to live commentary and information provided by your local crew on board. Cruising along the Cape Brett Peninsula and to the famous HOLE IN THE ROCK, Cathedral Cave and Cape Brett Lighthouse Stopover on a second island for a chance to explore the nature trails, take a swim, snorkel, relax and enjoy a beachside picnic lunch before cruising back through the outer islands to finish in Paihia/Russell

The Bay of Islands is made up of 144 islands, and the best way to explore them is by boat. On this island-hopping day cruise, you can relax on board a comfortable catamaran while admiring the beautiful views of the sea, islands, and maybe even some dolphins. Snorkel, swim, or paddle board, and stop on land to visit a wildlife sanctuary. This is the easy way to see the bay, as it’s difficult to travel here independently without a boat.

Ocean Adventure is the fastest boat to the Hole in the Rock, combining exhilaration and exploration with a balance of speed and thrills, as well as stops to view wildlife, learn about the Bay of Islands & take photos. Great for families & adventure seekers to feel the thrill of speeding across the water & viewing the stunning islands of the Bay Relax in state of the art suspension seating for a safe & comfortable ride as you fast track your journey through the iconic scenery of the Bay of Islands. Not suitable for guests over 120kg in weight due to the hydraulic seating. Jump on board for a 1.5 hour cruise, visiting the Cape Brett Peninsula & travel through the iconic Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako, conditions permitting. Enter the amazing Cathedral Cove if conditions permit & hear entertaining commentary about the Bay of Islands with stops for photos. Option to stop at Otehei Bay, Urupukapuka Island (must be pre-booked) and return on a later ferry at no extra cost.

Spend a day relaxing during this catamaran sailing trip, complete with an island stop and packed lunch. Sail aboard a spacious 40-foot (12-meter) catamaran in the Bay of Islands. Enjoy the scenery as you glide through the waters. Anchor at a secluded bay at an island accessible only by boat. Choose to stroll the island, swim, try stand-up paddle boarding, or snorkel. Relish a delicious catered packed lunch on beanbags upfront before cruising back to Paihia.

Get onboard the most comprehensive day cruise in the Bay of Islands, taking in the Hole in the Rock, the historic Cream Trip route and an island stop at Otehei Bay. Start the morning cruising through the inner islands and past the Cape Brett Peninsula, out to the famous Hole in the Rock on Motukōkako. Take in the scenery, learn about the area's history through our informative and entertaining commentary, and keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine wildlife along the way. Stop off at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, where you can relax on the beach, explore a coastal walking track, have a swim or hire a kayak in peak season, then grab a bite to eat and drink from the fully licensed Otehei Bay Bar & Café. Following your island stop, cruise through the inner islands past the unique Black Rocks and the historic Marsden Cross, then try your hand at boom-netting when available.

Immerse yourself in the timeless tranquillity of peaceful Paihia. With gorgeous sunset backdrops, our cruise makes for a perfect romantic evening or an escape from busy lives. Sit back and relax while your captain takes you to the best anchorages around the bay. Feel the wind in your hair on this true sailing experience.

Awesome Bay of Islands Day Sailing Adventure on our 65 foot ocean going yacht GUNGHA II. Our sailing tour is exciting, funny and informal. We provide tasty morning snacks, heaps of sailing, a unique island stopover, masks & snorkels, hot outside showers and our yummy fresh sandwich lunch. Marine life including penguins, seabirds and others are often plentiful and frequently sighted in playful groups. Our friendly crew will help you sail the boat or you can simply relax and enjoy. We depart from Paihia/Russell daily at 10:00/10:15 am. We return around 4:00 pm. GUNGHA II is the largest and most widely travelled ocean sailing yacht in the Bay of Islands! Our crew have sailed and lived aboard throughout the Pacific and beyond. Our winter schedule often includes Tonga, Fiji and New Caledonia. If you are keen to talk about or learn some sailing skills our crew will be happy to share! Let us show you our paradise!

Enjoy the exclusive use of the luxury sailing catamaran, Serenity. Sit back and take in the sights, or if you want to get involved, take a turn at the wheel under the guidance of your professional captain or assist in hoisting the sails. The captain will select a suitable place to drop anchor and allow you to explore the coast via paddleboard, the beach by foot, hike the scenic island trails, swim or snorkel a lagoon, or simply lounge and relax on the spacious decks. The choice is yours to customize the day as you wish. Serenity comfortably accommodates up to 20 guests. Her spacious interior and enclosed cockpit allow ample space for all, even if a rain shower passes over. Pickup and drop-offs at your coastal luxury lodge or accommodation provider can be arranged.

The Rock overnight cruise in the Bay of Islands is the only overnight cruise in the area to offer such a wide range of activities, including kayaking, fishing, snorkeling, island walks, and more. Enjoy adventure activities as well as time to relax in peaceful nature. As this is an all-inclusive tour you don’t need to worry about any logistics. Just show up ready for fun.

Explore Paihia’s wild side on this family-owned and operated sightseeing cruise to (hopefully) spot some marine life. Just sit back, relax, and let your captain do the work of taking you to some of the best spots on the water. A portion of every ticket goes straight to marine mammal conservation and a local children’s marine education program.

Embark on a wildlife-focused cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands, where encounters with dolphins, whales, seals, and various bird species await. This 5.5-hour adventure includes a 1.5-hour stop at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, allowing you to explore the island's natural beauty and unique wildlife restoration efforts. The cruise is led by an experienced crew and is one of the few licensed operators by the Department of Conservation, ensuring a responsible and educational experience. Enjoy opportunities for swimming, beach relaxation, and learning about local conservation projects. - 4-hour scenic cruise aboard a purpose-built vessel with large viewing decks - Marine mammal viewing guarantee: come again free if no sightings occur - 1.5-hour island stop for swimming, exploring, and spotting native wildlife - Optional boom netting and lunch available at Otehei Bay Cafe & Bar

Unwind on a relaxing 2-hour sailing cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands. Departing from Paihia Wharf, this small-group experience offers the perfect way to enjoy Northland’s spectacular coastline, fresh sea air, and beautiful island scenery without committing to a full-day tour. Step aboard our spacious catamaran and sail through sheltered bays and scenic island landscapes while enjoying plenty of space to relax and take in the views. With a maximum of just 19 guests onboard, you'll enjoy a more personal and peaceful experience than larger cruise vessels. Your local skipper will share insights about the Bay of Islands as you cruise past historic shorelines, secluded bays, and native wildlife habitats. Keep an eye out for seabirds, dolphins, and other marine life that are often seen in the area.

Spend the day cruising the clear blue waters of the Bay of Islands, hopping from beach to beach – or spend it snorkelling around local reefs and shipwrecks – or spend it hiking through the pristine native bush on a handful of the Bay’s 140-plus islands. On this private charter in the Bay of Islands, do what you to do. Instead of sticking to a tour operator’s preset schedule, tailor your half- or full-day itinerary in the Bay to your own tastes.